Women's Representation in Interventional Cardiology and Other Interventional Fields: Opportunities and Challenges.

Abstract

Background: Gender disparities persist in procedure-intensive fields (interventional cardiology (IC), interventional radiology (IR), and interventional gastroenterology (IG)). Despite increasing gender balance in some medical specialties, interventional branches remain male-dominated, potentially limiting women's advancement. This study aimed to identify barriers, opportunities, and the impact of gender-based differences on practicing physicians in IC, IR, and IG in Türkiye, with the goal of informing policy and work-place reforms.

Methods: The authors conducted a cross-sectional survey of 338 physicians (50% female) across 3 procedural specialties. Participants answered a 55-item electronic questionnaire that covering demographics, career satisfaction, professional conditions, and experienced challenges. The complete raw dataset is provided via an online link.

Results: A total of 338 physicians from three procedural specialties responded (50% female overall). Women reported lower incomes, fewer mentorship opportunities, and more frequent workplace discrimination. Whereas men frequently cited "wage suppression" and "long hours" as deterrents, women underscored concerns about radiation exposure, emergency workloads, and gender bias. Although scientific productivity measures (e.g., publications) did not differ by gender, female respondents reported higher rates of emotional harassment and scheduling barriers (taking fewer annual leave days or attending fewer scientific events).

Conclusion: Women's underrepresentation in interventional fields reflects systemic barriers, including perceived or real discrimination, physical demands, and limited structural support. Addressing these barriers, long or unpredictable work hours, radiation concerns, and workplace bias may foster a more inclusive environment. Institutional-level reforms and policy changes are essential to bridging gender gaps and improving retention in these critical specialties.